Which property of light makes fiber optics effective in data transmission?

Fiber optics relies on the principles of reflection and refraction to effectively transmit data over long distances. When light travels through a fiber optic cable, it enters the core of the fiber, which has a higher refractive index than the surrounding cladding. This difference in refractive index causes the light to bend, allowing it to bounce off the inner walls of the core in a phenomenon known as total internal reflection.

This property ensures that the light remains contained within the core, minimizing losses and allowing it to travel significant distances with low attenuation. The ability to maintain the integrity of the light signal over long distances makes fiber optics an ideal medium for high-speed data transmission, as it can carry more information compared to traditional copper wires.

The other options do not encapsulate the primary mechanisms that enable fiber optics to function effectively. While the ability to bend is relevant, it does not entirely convey the necessary behaviors of light in fiber optics as comprehensively as reflection and refraction do. Electrical conductivity is not a pertinent factor in fiber optics, as they operate using light rather than electrical signals. Similarly, the interaction of light with magnetic fields does not play a role in fiber optic technology.